Three Watches I’d Buy If I Could Only Wear One Watch
The idea of a one-watch collection is strangely compelling, even if, like me, you enjoy the ritual of choosing a watch each morning. There’s a simplicity in having one watch that does it all, becoming part of your daily routine until it feels like a second skin. It takes on your scratches, the knocks from door frames, the smudges from your toddler’s hand – and somehow, it all makes it better.
But if I had to pick just one watch for the rest of my life, it would need to tick a few boxes:
Versatile enough for work, weekends, and weddings.
Comfortable enough to wear daily, without ever feeling like a burden.
Interesting enough to keep me from getting bored, even after years on the wrist.
It’s a high bar, which means a lot of watches are instantly ruled out: large, bulky pieces that get caught on jackets, thick divers that can’t hide under a cuff, delicate dress watches that wouldn’t survive a knock on a door frame, or fussy watches that need constant babying. As much as I love them, these are not contenders for the “one watch” spot.
After many late-night rabbit holes and quiet moments of watch daydreaming, here are three watches I’d seriously consider if I could only wear one watch for the rest of my life – and why you might want to, too.
Credit - Omega
Omega Aqua Terra 150M
There’s a reason the Aqua Terra shows up in almost every “one watch” discussion online, and it’s not hype. It genuinely balances sporty capability with refined design.
The 150m water resistance, screw-down crown, and robust Co-Axial movement mean you can take it swimming, sailing, or out in the rain without a second thought. Yet it looks entirely at home under a cuff thanks to its clean dial and polished indices.
For me, the version with the turquoise dial is particularly tempting. It’s a dial that shifts from deep navy to bright blue in different lights, giving the watch a fresh look throughout the day. On the bracelet, it feels like a sports watch; on a leather strap, it dresses up without trying too hard.
Why it would be my “only” watch:
It’s the definition of go-anywhere, do-anything. It has just enough personality to keep me interested, and the slim profile means it won’t snag under jackets or feel top-heavy on the wrist.
Credit - Grand Seiko
Grand Seiko SBGA413 “Cherry Blossom” (Shunbun)
At first glance, you might think this is too pretty for daily wear. It isn’t. The subtle pink “sakura” dial changes dramatically depending on the light, appearing silvery in most conditions but revealing gentle tones up close, adding a quiet intrigue you’d appreciate over years.
The titanium case makes it ultra-light for daily comfort, and the finishing is nothing short of art – Zaratsu-polished surfaces catching the light beautifully without looking flashy.
Under the hood, the Spring Drive movement offers incredible accuracy while giving you that endlessly smooth gliding seconds hand, a constant reminder of Grand Seiko’s technical brilliance.
Why it would be my “only” watch:
It feels special every time you look at it, yet it’s robust and versatile enough to wear anywhere. It also carries a quiet elegance that makes it unique in a one-watch scenario – you wouldn’t tire of the dial’s nuances even years down the line.
Credit - Rolex
Rolex Explorer 36mm (Ref. 124270)
The Explorer is the epitome of “understated cool.” It’s a watch that quietly does everything without ever screaming for attention.
The 36mm case is comfortable for daily wear, and the dial’s layout – with its 3-6-9 numerals – offers unbeatable legibility while maintaining a timeless aesthetic. It’s slim, slips under any cuff, and the oyster bracelet is among the most comfortable in the industry.
With 100m water resistance and a robust automatic movement, it’s genuinely ready for anything you throw at it, whether it’s a hike up a hill, a day at the office, or a friend’s wedding.
Why it would be my “only” watch:
It’s a watch that disappears when you don’t want to think about it, yet feels perfect when you do take the time to notice it. It’s versatile, reliable, and wears well on a bracelet or a leather strap, allowing subtle variety within a one-watch lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Why a “One Watch” Can Be Worth It
While many of us collect watches for variety, the idea of wearing one watch every day has its own quiet romance. It’s about building a relationship with a single object, letting it gather your stories over time, and simplifying your life just a little bit.
If I had to choose just one, any of these three would be a watch I could confidently strap on each morning, knowing it could handle whatever the day brings – and look great doing it.
And if you’re thinking about slimming your collection or starting fresh with one great watch, these three are worth your consideration!